Discover New Texas Wine Country Favorites
We all love the Texas Hill Country, but if you’re looking for a fresh wine weekend or just a quieter escape, the Lone Star State has plenty more to offer beyond Fredericksburg. From the wooded charm of East Texas to the windswept plains near Lubbock and the breezy Gulf Coast, here are three wine road trips that spotlight overlooked regions and the local wineries putting them on the map.
Each destination comes with three standout wineries and a bonus restaurant or attraction to round out your trip. Let’s hit the road!
East Texas Piney Woods Wine Trail
Vibe: Wooded charm, small towns, easygoing tastings.
The Piney Woods region may not be the first place that comes to mind for wine, but this laid-back corner of Texas has been producing rich reds and refreshing whites for decades.
🍷 Kiepersol Vineyards – Tyler
Set on over 60 acres of estate vines, Kiepersol offers a polished tasting experience with sweeping views. Their Merlots and Syrahs are Texas standouts, and the attached distillery means you can sip on handcrafted vodka or bourbon after your wine flight.
🍷 Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg
This one’s for music lovers and laid-back wine drinkers alike. Think jazz on the patio, sangria in your glass, and a full restaurant to keep you nibbling between sips. Los Pinos Ranch’s motto? “Sophisticated wines for everyday people.”
🍷 Red Road Vineyard & Winery – Naples
A boutique spot with a cozy tasting room, Red Road excels at small-batch blends. Expect friendly faces, interesting varietals, and that charming local feel that makes a wine road trip special.
🎯 Bonus Stop: The Grove Kitchen & Gardens (Tyler)
Upscale yet casual, this popular eatery offers seasonal fare, a lush patio, and frequent live music. It’s a perfect stop after a day of tastings.
High Plains Wine Country (Lubbock Area)
Vibe: Big skies, serious vines, and vineyard-to-bottle dedication.
The Texas High Plains AVA is the backbone of the state’s wine industry. Most Texas grapes are grown here thanks to ideal elevation, soil, and sun. And in recent years, its wineries have stepped up to showcase just how good the wine can be.
🍷 McPherson Cellars – Lubbock
Run by winemaker Kim McPherson, this urban winery is housed in a renovated Coca-Cola plant and regularly earns national acclaim. Their Sangiovese and Albariño are worth the trip alone.
🍷 English Newsom Cellars – Lubbock
An estate-grown operation that handles everything from vine to bottle. Tastings include a solid lineup of reds and whites, and the staff loves walking visitors through the winemaking process.
🍷 Bingham Family Vineyards – Meadow
A true family farm and one of the best expressions of Texas-grown wine. Bingham Family Vineyard tastings showcase a wide range of varietals, including some lesser-known ones that are thriving in Texas soil.
🎯 Bonus Stop: Buddy Holly Center (Lubbock)
A fun, retro stop that pays tribute to the city’s most famous musical son. It’s a small museum packed with heart, history, and vintage rock nostalgia.
Gulf Coast Wine Trail (Coastal Texas)
Vibe: Breezy sips, seafood nearby, and unexpected finds.
Texas’ coastal plains may be humid, but that doesn’t stop winemakers from crafting unique bottles that pair well with Gulf flavors. This trail offers something a little different—with the bonus of being close to the beach.
🍷 Haak Vineyards & Winery – Santa Fe
Located just outside Galveston, Haak is known for its award-winning Madeira-style dessert wines and lush gardens. You’ll find classic varietals as well as bold experiments here.
🍷 West Sandy Creek Winery – Richards
Tucked near the Sam Houston National Forest, this rustic winery pours Texas-grown wines in a peaceful, wooded setting. You might even spot a few llamas and donkeys roaming the grounds.
🍷 Texas SouthWind Vineyard & Winery – Refugio
A Southern gem that leans into sweet, fruit-forward wines like peach, plum, and blueberry. Texas SouthWind is casual, fun, and unlike most wine stops you’ve experienced.
🎯 Bonus Stop: El Tiempo Cantina (Houston)
End your day with legendary Tex-Mex and oversized margaritas. This Houston staple never disappoints, especially after a few tastings.
Final Thoughts
Texas wine is evolving fast—and there’s a whole world beyond the Hill Country waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for piney woods charm, big sky adventures, or breezy coastal pours, these road trips offer a taste of something new.
Ready to explore a different side of Texas wine country? Pick a route, fill the gas tank, and raise a glass to the road less traveled.
